VDOT unveils plan for Gloucester’s Main Street intersection

This schematic illustrates the changes that are proposed at the intersection of Main Street and Route 14 in Gloucester. Additional turn lanes towards Route 14 and multiple pedestrian improvements are the highlights of the $1.5 million construction project, which will be funded through the state’s SmartScale program. VDOT illustration

The intersection of Main Street and Route 14 in Gloucester Court House will take on a different look once a Virginia Department of Transportation project is developed.

VDOT personnel held an informational session last week to inform the public of details of the plan to reconfigure the intersection, which would create additional turn lanes toward Route 14.

Twenty-six individuals, many of whom are residents of nearby areas such as Ware House Road, attended the two-hour event in the historic courthouse on June 5.

The project would add turn lanes towards Route 14, making those portions of the intersection three lanes instead of two. Those turning left or right onto Route 14 from Main Street or 17 Business would be affected by the new pattern.

Additionally, traffic in the right lane travelling from Route 14 toward Main Street would now have the option to turn left, stay straight, or turn right, meaning travelers from that direction will need to stay in their own lane as they enter the intersection.

In total the project will cost $1.5 million, all of which is SmartScale funded, said VDOT Communications Manager Kelly Hannon. As such, Gloucester County will not have to pay for the project since it is funded from state coffers.

An informational packet obtained from VDOT also showed pedestrian improvements in the area such as additional sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals.

VDOT claims the project “will be performed in such a manner that traffic will be maintained with a minimum of inconvenience to the travelling public.”

The work to improve the intersection is still a couple years away. Construction is slated to begin in June 2020 with a December 2020 completion date.